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The festivals of the Jews are often marked with a cheerful spirit and many of the Festivals and Events in Israel wear the cheerfulness as the country celebrates them with a gusto. As all the Jewish festivals stem from some chapter in history, Purim too owes its origin to the Biblical episode of the victory of the Jews over the Babylonian forces. Purim in Israel is therefore a happy occasion as the day spells to the country a time for rejoicing the victory. The festival is a symbolic observance of the historic event which saved the Jews from the Haman’s lethal plans. The Biblical book of Esther recounts the decisive war which saved the Jews from annihilation. As the ancient warriors triumphed on the 13th day of the month of Adar, the Jews today celebrate the victory on the 14th day of the month, though Sushan observes the festivity on the 15th day of the month. The event follows immediately after the fast of Esther and the Jews rejoice the day after the fast with sumptuous feasts and an all round gaiety. Purim in Israel is a major public holiday. With carnivals, parades, feasts, and public performances, the day is spent much in the spirit that rings in Halloween. As a festival devoted to fun and celebration, Purim at Israel is marked with a distinct vibrancy. The streets are flocked with children dressed up as Purim characters and masked pageants walk down to the synagogues to hear the Book of Esther being read. With a spirit of liberation pervading through the event, Purim includes several rituals which are often unrefined when compared to the usual somber customs that mark the other Jewish festivals. For instance, burning effigies of Haman, or shouting when his name is announced form common customs of Purim. The synagogues too indulge in the licentiousness for the day, and the rituals of the day permit a libelous celebration. Feasting is an inherent part of the festival and as in the other countries; Purim is Israel is celebrated with sumptuous meals called Seudat Purim. With abundant wine drinking, dancing and exchanging of gifts the entire country rings with happy notes, thus making Purim a festival to look forward to.
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